Mission Statement:
Latin American Studies combines a multidisciplinary approach to Latin America and the Hispanic Caribbean, Spanish and/or Portuguese language study, and off-campus study to deepen participating students’ knowledge of the area. Contributing courses are not restricted to the region’s geographic limits but also include the experiences of diasporic communities as well as courses that provide a broader theoretical perspective to help students understand Latin Americans’ diverse lived experiences.
This firm grounding in the history, cultures, and languages of Latin America will allow students from any major to bring a wider global perspective to their disciplinary projects.
Learning Goals:
- Familiarity with Latin American culture(s) gained through a direct experience of living and learning in the region demonstrated through the record of study abroad (participation in an endorsed OCS program, grades, and credit hours passed).
- Proficiency in Spanish and/or Portuguese at an intermediate level or above measured by placement exam, examination of coursework, or a portfolio. The purpose of this language study is to allow the individual to access and participate in Latin America culture, as well as the ability to conduct research in the language.
- Substantive knowledge of Latin American histories and culture that draws on more than one disciplinary perspective, indicated by passing courses from at least three departments. The larger educational objective is to engender holistic knowledge of the history and culture of at least a part of Latin America, and to apply relevant moral and ethical considerations to their commitments at the college and beyond.